Malaysia

The Jacksons’ first visit to Malaysia was an unplanned blessing, and they could never have known what God had in store for them during their tour of Asia in 2010. The family’s experience has been consistent with Proverbs 19:21: “Many are the plans in a man’s heart but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” In January 2010, they were spontaneously invited to the beautiful country of Malaysia by a Christian businessman and his precious family. This nation, known for its excellent food and cultural diversity, also claims some of the world’s most unique architecture including the Petronas Towers which are the tallest twin buildings in the world at 1483 feet (452 meters) in the capital city of Kuala Lumpur where the Jacksons spent all of their time.

Malaysia is rich in cultural heritage as a result of its diverse population and indigenous people. There are large cross-sections of Chinese and Indian descendants all over the country which possess a broad range of racial ethnicities and religious backgrounds. The native Malay people, however, are born into the Muslim faith and maintain the nation’s ruling class. Malaysia is ruled by 9 sultans with one king at the head of government.The law clearly prohibits believers in Jesus Christ from sharing the gospel with their Muslim friends. Only three days prior to the Jacksons’ visit, nine Christian churches were fire-bombed by religious terrorists. The country was still reeling from the aftershocks of the attacks when the family arrived. The Republic of Malaysia declares religious freedom but the tension among the people had obviously reached a boiling point as the Jacksons heard first-hand accounts and prayed on-site where church buildings had been destroyed. They ministered with Full Gospel Assembly and spent several days meeting with businessmen and ministry leaders including the editor of the leading newspaper (The Star) and the owner of the Salvation Christian Bookstores in Malaysia.

The Jacksons felt humbled and blessed by the people and were tremendously encouraged by their sweet, enduring spirit. As the family ministers and continues to pray with new friends, they realize that a return to Malaysia and great future outreach is certain. God’s love and saving power is the hope for this great nation.